Rogues' gallery of DNA

FOUR ADDITIONAL classes of dangerous felons would be added to California's DNA rogues' gallery under a sensible crime-fighting bill moving through the state Senate.

The measure, AB673, by San Francisco Assemblywoman Carole Migden, would add convicted arsonists, carjackers, burglars and robbers to the list of felons whose DNA samples are kept at the Department of Justice's DNA databank in Berkeley.

The databank holds 200,000 genetic fingerprints from some of the state's most vicious criminals.

Currently, DNA samples are taken only from people convicted of murder, rape,

Adding home invaders, carjackers and firebugs to the list would be a big help for police tracking down repeat offenders.

The bill is sponsored by Attorney General Bill Lockyer, law enforcement agencies and victims' groups. Opposition comes from the American Civil Liberties Union, which argues fatuously that taking DNA samples violates convicts' privacy rights.

DNA fingerprinting is one of the great advances in modern forensics, providing far more accurate and comprehensive identification information than traditional fingerprints, photos and physical descriptions.

DNA evidence has become a vital law-enforcement tool for tracking down criminals who leave the slightest traces of blood, semen, saliva, hair or skin cells at the scene of their crimes.

DNA is also used as evidence to acquit falsely accused suspects, and in recent months has helped release several innocent men awaiting execution.

Passed by the Assembly, the bill faces a key test tomorrow when it is heard by the six-member Senate Public Safety Committee. We urge an aye vote on AB673.